Production Assistant

Foundation Summary

The Robert R. McCormick Foundation envisions a Chicagoland comprised of thriving communities where all individuals have the resources and opportunities to succeed, without regard to income, race, ethnicity, gender, or ZIP code. We invest in people and organizations across the region to develop educated, informed, and engaged communities.

The Foundation was established in 1955, upon the death of Colonel Robert R. McCormick, the longtime editor and publisher of the Chicago Tribune. The Foundation’s philanthropic investments of more than $1.8 billion to date, are currently focused on Chicago's South and West Sides and the following issues: early childhood education, public safety, community development, veterans, and journalism.

The Foundation’s Board also oversees Cantigny, Col. McCormick's 500-acre estate in Wheaton, Illinois, which encompasses a park, formal gardens, a museum dedicated to the 1st Infantry Division of the U.S. Army, and a 27-hole public golf facility. Learn more at mccormickfoundation.org, cantigny.org, fdmuseum.org, and cantignygolf.com.

Position Summary

Cantigny Park seeks a team of Production Assistants to assist in the coordination of all non-technical backstage operations for the 2025 summer season. Assistants will help perform the daily operations of the Guest Services Department for all events/programs. This includes, but is not limited to; ticket collections, parking, crowd control, moving and setting up tables and chairs, working crafts and bouncy house, set up and tear down of event stage and tents, trash removal, all other duties as assigned.

This is a seasonal, part-time (i.e., 30 hours/week) position between June– early December. This position requires the ability to work outside of normal business hours (mainly Wednesday through Friday evenings, weekends and holidays). This position will report to the Guest Services and Special Activities Coordinator .

Essential Functions

• Event Setup & Teardown: Assist with the physical setup and breakdown of event infrastructure (e.g., stages, tents, tables, chairs).
• Guest Services Operations: Support ticket collection, parking direction, crowd flow, and overall audience management.
• Children’s Activities Support: Operate and supervise family-focused features such as craft stations and inflatable play areas.
• Cleanliness & Safety: Maintain event space cleanliness (trash removal, tidying high-traffic areas) and support a safe, welcoming environment.
• General Backstage Support: Help with non-technical backstage duties as assigned, ensuring smooth event execution.

Requirements:

Minimum Qualifications:

Education: High School Diploma or GED

Skills:

• Must have a valid driver's license.
• Must be able to follow directions and work with a team.
• Must be physically able to lift and maneuver 50 lbs.
• Stand and walk for several hours during the events.
• Flexible availability that includes weekends, evenings, and holidays.
• Will be outdoors at times in all weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, etc.)

Equal Opportunity Employer

Cantigny Park and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, individuals with disabilities, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital and housing status.